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Dogs Trust issues fireworks advice
"There are lots of things dog owners can do to make fireworks less stressful for thier dogs" - Jenna Kiddie, Dogs Trust.
Public urged to take action to help their pets.

With the seasonal celebrations of Halloween and Bonfire Night just around the corner, national charity Dogs Trust has issued a timely reminder to pet owners to help make fireworks less stressful for their animals.

From walking dogs before dark to providing safe places for animals to hide, the charity has set out eight simple tips pet owners can take to ensure their pet's stay happy and healthy this autumn. 

Jenna Kiddie, head of canine behaviour at Dogs Trust, explained: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying and confusing experience for them. Fireworks tend to be sudden, unpredictable and bright. This combination can be distressing and have a lasting impact on dogs.

“There are lots of things dog owners can do to help make fireworks less stressful for their dogs. Simple steps such as providing safe spaces for them to hide or settling them before the fireworks start can make a big difference.”

Dogs Trust is urging anyone considering their own fireworks display to think about the welfare of their four-legged friends and others in the neighbourhood by following its Firework Dog Code. The charity also provides free sound therapy to help gradually expose puppies to various noises in a positive way. 

Jenna continued: “If your dog is very worried by fireworks or other loud noises, they might need longer-term treatment. If that is the case, it would be a good idea for owners to have a chat with their vet. They can check there are no underlying health conditions that might be affecting behaviour, and then owners can discuss referral to an accredited behaviourist for support and tailored advice.”

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.